Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. The Honda Africa Twin has a 1084cc inline twin engine that produces 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque, while the KTM Super Adventure R features a 1301cc V-twin engine that delivers 160 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque. Both bikes have electric starters and chain transmissions.

In terms of suspension, the Honda Africa Twin is equipped with a Showa upside-down telescopic fork with 45mm diameter and 230mm travel in the front, and a Showa monoshock with 220mm travel in the rear. The KTM Super Adventure R features a WP upside-down telescopic fork with 48mm diameter and 220mm travel in the front, and a WP monoshock with 220mm travel in the rear. Both bikes offer compression, preload, and rebound adjustments for the suspension.

The chassis of the Honda Africa Twin is made of steel and has a double cradle frame type, with a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113mm. On the other hand, the KTM Super Adventure R has a chromium-molybdenum frame and a tubular frame type, with a rake of 64.7 degrees and a trail of 112.8mm.

In terms of braking, both bikes are equipped with double disk brakes in the front. The Honda Africa Twin comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The KTM Super Adventure R also features ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150mm with an 18-inch diameter. The Honda Africa Twin has a wheelbase of 1574mm, a seat height of 850mm, and a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters, providing a range of 383km with a combined fuel consumption of 4.9l/100km. On the other hand, the KTM Super Adventure R has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1577mm, a higher seat height of 880mm, and a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters, providing a range of 403km with a combined fuel consumption of 5.7l/100km.

In terms of equipment, both bikes come with modern features such as LED headlights, TFT displays, and connectivity options. The Honda Africa Twin also offers Bluetooth connectivity, while the KTM Super Adventure R adds cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, and an adjustable windscreen to its equipment list.

In terms of strengths, the Honda Africa Twin stands out with its powerful engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, and the option of a wonderfully functioning DCT. It also offers a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. Additionally, its windshield is well-suited for off-road riding.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021

On the other hand, the KTM Super Adventure R impresses with its robust overall build quality, high-quality and practical chassis, and a great seat for endurance in the saddle. It features sporty and high-quality components and a powerful yet easy-to-control engine. It also offers practical riding aids.

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The Honda Africa Twin's operating concept for the electronics is not very clear and intuitive, and its handguards are not very robust for off-road use. The windshield also offers only manageable protection, and the ergonomics may not be ideal for standing riding.

The KTM Super Adventure R, despite its high price, lacks individual features in the basic equipment and has fiddly controls.

In conclusion, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R 2021 are both capable and powerful enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two would depend on personal preferences and priorities, such as desired features, riding style, and budget.